Rubio Cracks Down on Conflicts of Interest at the State Department Ahead of 2028

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has warned senior officials that unethical behavior will get them fired, whatever their connections, according to four people familiar with the meeting. Major decisions now need his sign off or that of Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau, and his office must approve all political travel.

Exits That Shaped the Message

Guilfoyle and Lewin

The warning followed Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle’s resignation over reports she sold access, which she denies. Policy chief Jeremy Lewin also left, reportedly for working outside his area. He says he resigned as planned for a private sector job.

What It Means for 2028

Rubio has not ruled out a presidential run, so his handling of the department could become a campaign issue. Democrats plan to probe Trump aides’ dealings with foreign officials once they take Congress in January.